No longer viewed as a characteristic unique to humans, brain lateralization is considered a key property of most, if not all, vertebrates. This field of study provides a firm basis from which to examine a number of important issues in the study of brain and behaviour. This book takes a comparative and integrative approach to lateralization in a wide range of vertebrate species, including humans. It highlights model systems that have proved invaluable in elucidating the function, causes, development, and evolution of lateralization. The book is arranged in four parts, beginning with the evolution of lateralization, moving to its development, to its cognitive dimensions, and finally to its role in memory. Experts in lateralization in lower vertebrates, birds, non-primate mammals, and primates have contributed chapters in which they discuss their own research and consider its implications to humans. The book is suitable for researchers, graduates and advanced undergraduates in psychology, neuroscience and the behavioral sciences.

'Andrew & Roger perform an enormous service in bringing data from animal behaviour, neuroanatomy and electrophysiology into contact with traditional zoological concerns such as genetics, embryology and population biology.'

Source: Journal of Animal Behaviour

'Whatever the outcome of the war, this book will be a key starting point for those trying to understand it (or perhaps to fight in it).'

Source: Annals of Human Biology